In and Around Park Forest for the Week of April 2, 2017

Legendary jazz singer Billie Holiday (Photo Source: govst.edu)

Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)— Attention all Billie Holiday fans. The Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park at Governors State University will present a significant large-scale public art, inspiring visitors to experience art and nature in new and unexpected ways. In a day full of activities on Friday, April 7, park Director Geoff Bates takes a new look at Mark diSuvero’s celebrated sculpture Yes! For Lady Day through the eyes of another Lady Day, the legendary jazz singer Billie Holiday, on what would be her 102nd birthday. You’ll find the complete list of events in the ‘Arts & Entertainment’ section.

Beginning this week, the activities taking place at the Crete Public Library will be included in the column. The south suburbs are very fortunate to have some wonderful libraries in the area that provide many fun, educational and safe activities for those of all ages. Be sure to introduce your children, or re-introduce yourself, to the events at the local libraries.

If your club, organization or local business will be holding activities or events in the community that you would like published, please send an e-mail to RJPiserLPH@aol.com with the details no later than 5 p.m. on Friday. Thank you.

Village of Park Forest

Village Board Meeting – Monday, April 3

The Village of Park Forest Board will meet on Monday, April 3 at 7 p.m. The meeting will be held at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. Residents are encouraged to attend. Board meetings air live on cable access channels (Channel 4 for Comcast subscribers and Channel 99 for AT&T subscribers).

To view previously held Board Meetings, visit the Village’s web site here and click on the date of the meeting you wish to watch.

Village Commissions & Advisory Boards

The following Park Forest Commissions are scheduled to meet the week of April 2:

Tuesday, April 4 at 7 p.m. – Plan Commission
Thursday, April 6 at 1 p.m. – Senior Citizens Advisory Commission
Thursday, April 6 at 7 p.m. – Environment Commission

The meetings will be held at Park Forest Village Hall and residents are encouraged to attend.

Arts & Entertainment

Center for Performing Arts at Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park

Shakespeare’s The Tempest – Opens Thursday, April 6

Theatre and Performance Studies students at GSU present Shakespeare’s The Tempest on a stage of epic proportions. Instead of a remote island, patrons will witness a tale of magic, love, and revenge in the renowned Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park on the campus of Governors State University. This unique outdoor museum in the prairie, where art and nature are unveiled in inspiring ways, is the perfect place to explore the complexities of the human condition and the fragile division of happiness and tragedy. Performances are scheduled on: Thursday, April 6 at 6 p.m., Saturday, April 8 at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. and Sunday, April 9 at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. After years of being exiled with her daughter, Prospera, the rightful Duchess of Milan, summons a larger-than-life storm to trap her foes and exact revenge with the help of a roguish fairy. Shakespeare uses fantasy and magic to discuss the topics of romantic love, sibling hatred, parental love, the overthrowing of government, nature versus nurture, and innocence. The Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park at Governors State University presents significant large-scale public art, inspiring visitors to experience Art and Nature in new and unexpected ways. Showcasing thirty-two master works of contemporary sculpture, juxtaposed against the backdrop of the natural Illinois prairie, the park is open year-round to visitors, dawn until dusk, free of charge. This production takes place at and between four sculptures: “What’s Not,” by Chakaia Booker; “Icarus,” by Charles Ginnevar; “Yes! for Lady Day,” by Marc DiSuvero; and “House Divided,” by Bruce Nauman. For more information on these and other sculptures in the collection, visit http://www.govst.edu/sculpture.

Tickets and Other Information

Tickets: $15, Students $10

By Phone: 708-235-2222

In Person at the Box Office: 1 University Parkway, University Park, IL

Box Office Hours: Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (open to 6 p.m. on Thursdays) and 2 hours prior to all performances

When You Go

Audience members will assemble in E-Lounge prior to the show and be guided to the deserted island (sculpture park). Those with tickets in hand should park in East Lot 3. Patrons who are picking up tickets or purchasing tickets should go to the Center for Performing Arts box office. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing is recommended. In the event of bad weather, the show will be performed indoors in E-Lounge. A limited number of seats will be available for those who require it. To request seats, please contact the box office at 708-235-2222.

Crete Public Library District, 1177 North Main Street

The following events are scheduled at the Crete Public Library District the week of April 2:

Tuesday, April 4 at 7 p.m. – Southwest Cooking — Chef Michael Niksic will demonstrate southwestern style cooking. Samples included! For adults.
Wednesday, April 5 at 11 a.m. – Toddler Time with Art — A wonderful time of music, stories, and rhymes to be enjoyed by you and your child. Miss Judy will also do an age-appropriate art project with you and your toddler, ages 2 and 3. Registration required.
Wednesday, April 5 at 2 p.m. – Preschool Story Time — A day of fun and learning. Number recognition, alphabet, books, music and craft projects that are all geared in learning early literacy skills. For ages 4 and 5. Registration required.
Wednesday, April 5 at 3:30 p.m. – Library Teen Council (LTC) Meeting — Open to teens in grades 6-12. If you know what you want to see in the library, have suggestions for books to order or programming you want to attend, stop on by! We are always looking for new members. We will have snacks!
Saturday, April 8 between 10 a.m. – 12 noon – Spring Shredding Event – Come to the library parking lot with your items to be shredded. Limit 5 boxes. No 3-ring binders.
Saturday, April 8 at 1:45 p.m. – LEGO WeDo — Build LEGO creations and make them move with a computer! Great introduction to robotics for ages 6 and up. Sign-up limited to 10.

For additional information or to register for an event, call 708-672-8017 or visit www.cretelibrary.org.

Bucky Halker – ‘Ain’t Got a Dollar: Illinois Workers and Protest Songs, 1865-1965’ – Wednesday, April 19

Think you’ve got it bad at work? Get some perspective while taking a musical journey back in time through 100 years of songs by Illinois workers. Bucky Halker, historian and folksinger, will present a free performance to the public on Wednesday, April 19 at 7 p.m. at the Crete Public Library. In the century that followed the Civil War, Illinois businesses made great gains, and the state emerged as a central player in the nation’s economy. These gains were not experienced equally across the population, however. Workers in many sectors felt that their wages, hours, and working conditions were unfair and they repeatedly protested to improve their situation. Political action, unionization, public education, strikes, and rallies were their tools, but nowhere was their voice more clear and artistic than in song and poetry. Illinois became the center of American working-class protest music, as coal miners, laborers, printers, iron workers, clothing workers, and their allies penned songs and poems for the cause. Long before Bruce Springsteen took on the working-class struggle, Illinois workers championed their movement in song. The eight-hour day, higher wages, safer working conditions, and union contracts, as well as the horrors of mine accidents, the injustice of company stores, child labor, and police brutality all became subjects for worker bards. Not surprisingly, “Solidarity Forever” was written in Illinois and emerged as the anthem of American labor. Bucky is the always-busy director of Company of Folk, an organization that promotes folk and ethnic arts in the Upper Midwest through research and public programs, including the Folksongs of Illinois CD series, fieldwork on ethnic and folk artists in Illinois, and music festivals. Since 2011, Company of Folk has received awards from the Illinois Arts Council Agency, the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation, the National Endowment for the Arts, the Puffin Foundation, Shure Incorporated, and the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs. Learn more at www.buckyhalker.com. To register for this free program, please call the Crete Public Library at 708-672-8017.

DePaul University Theatre School, 2350 North Racine Avenue, Chicago

‘Wig Out!’ – Previews Begin Wednesday, April 12

The Theatre School at DePaul University will present Tarell Alvin McCraney’s “Wig Out!” with director Nathan Singh on the Fullerton Stage, 2350 N. Racine Ave. The production opens April 14 and runs through April 23. Performances are Wednesdays through Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Previews are April 12 and 13 at 7:30 p.m. “Wig Out!” welcomes audience members to the underground drag scene, a place where many gay men create families for themselves. The legendary House of Lights is one such family. As they prepare for a competitive ball with a rival house, each member confronts their identity within the family. “Wig Out!” is an electrifying tale of community, queer sub-culture and sexuality by The Theatre School alumnus McCraney. This play is recommended for mature audiences. For patrons who are blind or have low vision, the 2 p.m. performance April 23 will include audio description services, as well as a pre-performance touch tour. Call the box office at 312-922-1999 for more information. The performance on April 23 will be interpreted in American Sign Language. Call TTY: 773-325-7975. April 19 is USO of Illinois Night. U.S. Armed Forces personnel and their families may attend the performance for free. Visit www.tixfortroops.org to reserve tickets, or call the box office for more information. Additional special events include an opening night reception following the performance on April 14, and post-show discussions on April 15 and 20. Tickets are $15, preview tickets are $10, and student tickets are $5. All tickets are reserved seating. Subscriptions and group rates for six or more people are available. Tickets are available by calling the box office or visiting http://theatre.depaul.edu. The school is easily accessible via the Fullerton CTA Station and the Fullerton 74 bus. Visitors and audience members can park in DePaul University’s Clifton Parking Deck, located at 2330 N. Clifton Ave.

Diversity Dinners of the South Suburbs

20th Anniversary Diversity Dinner – Saturday, April 22

On Saturday, April 22, the Diversity Dinners of the South Suburbs will celebrate its 20th Anniversary. This year’s dinner will be held at Rich South High School, 5000 Sauk Trail in Richton Park, and will include a unique theatrical production, “Incognito” performed by author and activist, Michael Fosberg. For two decades, Diversity Dinners has brought together people of different races, religions, ethnicities, lifestyles and ages to enjoy a delicious meal, discuss their common goals, understand differences, address misconceptions and offer solutions to strengthen our communities. This experience highlights one of the priceless assets of the South Suburbs: its diversity. For one evening, we slow the pace and take the time to reflect and celebrate the unique opportunity of living in the south suburbs. The event is funded by contributions of individuals, businesses and local organizations, is coordinated by the villages of Flossmoor, Park Forest, Homewood, Richton Park and Olympia Fields; Homewood-Flossmoor High School District 233, Rich Township High School District 227, Congresswoman Robin Kelly, League of Women Voters Homewood-Flossmoor Area, League of Women Voters Park Forest Area, Center for Multicultural Communities and the National Coalition Building Institute (NCBI). Please plan to join other area residents on April 22nd at the Diversity Dinners for a stimulating evening, as we celebrate our 20th Anniversary. Tickets are reasonably priced at $15.00 per person. For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit our website at www.diversitydinners.com. If you have questions, please contact Diane Hodges at 708-720-5954 or via email: diane-hodges@comcast.net.

Freedom Hall, 410 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest

Glenn Miller Orchestra – Tuesday, April 4

The Glenn Miller Orchestra will perform at Freedom Hall on Tuesday, April 4 at 11 a.m. With its unique jazz sound, the Glenn Miller Orchestra is considered to be one of the greatest bands of all time. The present Glenn Miller Orchestra was formed in 1956 and has been touring consistently since, playing all around the world. View a video of the Glenn Miller Orchestra. Tickets for this matinee performance are $25 and can be purchased at the Freedom Hall box office or by the phone at 708-747-0580 or visit www.freedomhall.org.

Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra (IPO), 377 Artists Walk, Park Forest

Season Finale ‘American Perspectives’ – Saturday, April 8

The IPO will perform ‘American Perspectives’ on Saturday, April 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the Lincoln-Way Central Performing Arts Center, 1801 East Lincoln Highway in New Lenox. In this Season Finale, conductor candidate Maestro Sean Newhouse leads the IPO in a captivating musical journey from “sea to shining sea.” Pieces to be performed are: Copland’s “Buckaroo Holiday” and Dvorak’s Symphony No. 9 “New World.” All three of these works were written in America, but by composers of diverse backgrounds. The American-born Copland’s “Buckaroo Holiday” instantly conjures up images of the historical American West, while virtuoso double bassist Edgar Meyer’s captivating and touching Violin Concerto marries an earthy, folk-like feel with toe tapping contemporary rhythms. Dvorak’s Ninth Symphony, written during his American sojourn, embodies the inspiration he found in African-American spirituals and American Indian legends, as well as the musical heritage of his Czech homeland and the German symphonic tradition. Kentucky-born Tessa Lark joins the IPO for Meyer’s Concerto. Tickets are $55 ad can be purchased online at www.ipomusic.org or by phone at 708-481-7774.

Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park at Governors State University (GSU), 1 University Parkway, University Park

Celebrate Lady Day on Her 102nd Birthday at the Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park – Friday, April 7

The Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park at GSU presents significant large-scale public art, inspiring visitors to experience art and nature in new and unexpected ways. In a day full of activities on Friday, April 7, park Director Geoff Bates takes a new look at Mark diSuvero’s celebrated sculpture Yes! For Lady Day through the eyes of another Lady Day, the legendary jazz singer Billie Holiday, on what would be her 102nd birthday. Happy Birthday Billie! is part of the Chicago Southland’s “Let Them Eat Jazz” Festival. This jazz centennial celebration is presented by the Southland Arts, Municipalities, and Business Alliance (SAMBA), a regional collaboration of arts and businesses, and has been designed to showcase the power of the arts to drive people to the Southland region. What could jazz icon Billie Holiday have in common with Mark diSuvero’s architectural sculpture, aside from her nickname Lady Day? Both Holiday and diSuvero are known for being pioneers; diSuvero for his manipulation of steel, and Holiday for her manipulation of phrase and tempo. From a guided walk in the park to film screenings, expert talks, and birthday cake, the Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park will celebrate the career and influence of Billie Holiday and utilize diSuvero’s monumental sculpture, Yes! For Lady Day, as the centerpiece of this jazz-inspired birthday celebration on Lady Day’s 102nd birthday. Celebrate both icons in a full schedule of events:

10:45 – 11:15 a.m.: Introductory Walk to Yes! For Lady Day

A walk out to the sculpture Yes! For Lady Day, led by NMSP Director Geoff Bates

11:15 – 11:45 a.m.: Preview screening – Searching for Lady Day: A Portrait in Steel (Engbretson Hall)

Documentary video interview with sculptor Mark diSuvero produced by the NMSP and GSU’s Digital Learning and Media Design Department.

11:45 – Noon: Q&A with Director and Producer Geoff Bates

Noon – 12:30 p.m.: Happy Birthday Billie!

Birthday cake in the Hall of Governors!

12:30 – 2:15 p.m.: Film screening: Lady Sings the Blues (Engbretson Hall)

Diana Ross stars in this 1972 biography of Billie Holiday.

2:15 – 2:35 p.m.: Q & A about Lady Sings the Blues with Suzanne Patterson

Suzanne Patterson, Community Education Coordinator for GSU’s The Knowledge Exchange and film expert will discuss the film with audience members.

3 p.m.: Sculpture for a New Town – Presentation by Amanda Douberly, Ph.D.

Dr. Douberly is an instructor at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and will deliver her illustrated power point presentation on the on the significance of Yes! For Lady Day in the development of the Village of Park Forest South (now University Park).

3:45 – 4:15 p.m. Capstone Walk to Yes! For Lady Day

NMSP Director Geoff Bates and Amanda Douberly will walk to the sculpture for a final look at the end of the day.

The Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park showcases thirty-two master works of contemporary sculpture, juxtaposed against the natural Illinois prairie on the campus of Governors State University. The park is open year-round to visitors, dawn until dusk, free of charge. Visitors may augment their park experience with a new audio tour by downloading the Otocast app at http://otocast.com/index.html.

For a complete schedule of jazz-inspired events, visit http://CSJazzFestival.org. The Chicago Southland’s “Let Them Eat Jazz” Festival is supported by BMO Harris Bank, Standard Bank & Trust, and Providence Bank.

National Veterans Art Museum (NVAM), 4041 North Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago

Vonnegut’s Odyssey’ – Through May 6

The NVAM’s exhibit, ‘Vonnegut’s Odyssey,’ explores connections between the timeless and universal story of veterans’ return from combat through the artwork of World War II veteran and famed author Kurt Vonnegut Jr. Vonnegut’s selected artwork will be on view at NVAM through May 6, 2017. Exhibit curator and Iraq veteran Ash Kyrie notes, “The experience of returning home and processing the effects of war is something that is shared by all veterans, from the time of Homer’s The Odyssey, through Vonnegut’s experiences in Dresden, and continuing on today. Exhibiting the artwork of Vonnegut as an illustration of the post-war experience and as a creative processing tool for the artist highlights the process of the return and the complexity of the veteran experience.” Vonnegut enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1943 and was deployed to fight overseas in Europe during WWII. He was later captured at the Battle of the Bulge and served as a Prisoner of War until 1945 when he returned to the U.S. and was awarded the Purple Heart. These experiences largely shaped his creative endeavors including his well-known published literature and his body of artwork. From WWII through Vietnam and beyond, Vonnegut was an active voice in American culture and society—openly discussing war and its effects publicly. After establishing himself as an important American author during the late 1960’s with the publication of Slaughterhouse-Five (1969), Vonnegut later became recognized for his drawings that often accompanied his writings. These drawings vary in subject matter from his Purple Heart to his illustrious Asterisk. Building on these drawings, Vonnegut worked with printer Joe Petro III to create a prolific catalog of artwork. Presented together, these artworks reflect the connections between Vonnegut’s return home from World War II and Homer’s epic of Odysseus’s return home after the Trojan War. For additional information about the National Veterans Art Museum or the exhibit, visit www.nvam.org, or call 312-326-0270.

Park Forest Garden Club

Annual Spring Tea – Tuesday, April 11

The Park Forest Garden Club will hold its annual Spring Tea on Tuesday, April 11 at St. Mary’s Church, 227 Monee Road in Park Forest. A University of Illinois Master Gardener will discuss “Herb Gardening.” Admission is $5. Refreshments will be served and door prizes will be given away.

Park Forest Historical Society

Park Forest House Museum Lets You ‘Step Back into the 1950s’

The 1950s Park Forest House Museum, at 227 Monee Road (inside St. Mary’s Catholic Church), Park Forest, Illinois, invites you to “Step Back into a 1950s.” The Museum is open Wednesday and Saturday, 1 to 3:30 p.m.; other times by appointment. One room represents a classroom in Forest Boulevard School, which was set up in a row of townhomes. Admission is Adults $5; children 12 and under free. Park in the small lot by the flagpole and knock on the classroom door next to the museum sign. A guide will tell village history, and social and fashion trends of the era. Special tours can be arranged by calling Jane Nicoll, 708-481-4252, or Michael Gans, 708-305-3308. Information on the society and museum, and email contact is at www.parkforesthistory.org.

Park Forest Public Library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard

The following events are scheduled at the Park Forest Library the week of April 2:

Monday, April 3 at 11 a.m. – Sunrise Story Time — Jump start your morning with a series of stories that are sure to get you moving. For ages 12 and under.
Monday, April 3 at 3 p.m. — kids’ zone Science Club — A BIG BAG OF TRICKS! We’re exploring the Science behind Magic and Illusions. Students will use powers of observation and investigation to explain phenomenon, illusions, and tricks that seem impossible but are grounded in Science and can be understood with critical thinking. For Grades 3rd through 5th. Registration Required.
Monday, April 3 at 7 p.m. – Mindfulness Monday — Come join us as we begin each Mindfulness Monday with a relaxing breathing technique followed by a short guided meditation. Then center yourself through the practice of mindfulness (being present in the moment) by participating in one of our creative art-form projects.
Tuesday, April 4 at 3:30 p.m. – Art Studio — It’s time to BE CREATIVE! Each week we will explore different concepts of art. Materials will be provided. While supplies last. For ages 12 and under.
Tuesday, April 4 at 4 p.m. — Color-Rama! Coloring Circle — Relax a bit and take a load off before starting your homework. Learn different media of art and share your creativity with other teens!
Wednesday, April 5 at 11 a.m. – Lap Sit Story Time — Its Lap Sit Story Time! Babies and their parents or caregivers are invited to read, sing and grow in this weekly story time. This program is geared toward babies 0 – 36 months with an accompanying adult. This is the perfect time for families to bond with their child/children.
Wednesday, April 5 at 3:30 p.m. – Color Me Happy Circle (for kids) — Travel to a world of relaxation for kids. Lose yourself in patterns, curved flowers or even runaway stems. Color yourself Happy in our kids’ coloring circle. For ages 12 and under.
Wednesday, April 5 at 4 p.m. – Color Me Happy Circle — Our coloring circle is the perfect way to step back from the stress of everyday life and enjoy some relaxation! All supplies will be provided.
Wednesday, April 5 at 4 p.m. — Picturesque Poetry — April is National Poetry Month! Explore poetry in a non-traditional way!
Thursday, April 6 at 10 a.m. – Toddler Art — Bring your imagination, creativity, and throw on some old clothes to bring out your inner Picasso through art projects and more… Some projects may involve paint. For ages 3-5.
Thursday, April 6 at 3:30 p.m. – Drawing Theory — Do you enjoy Drawing and Sketching? Learn how to draw your favorite animations and more. For ages 12 and under.
Thursday, April 6 at 5:30 p.m. – Fun with Chess — It’s Game Time! Drop in for an evening of fun. Play a game of chess with friends, or learn how to play from someone more experienced.
Friday, April 7 at 5:30 p.m. – Readers’ Theater — Join us for a special Reader’s Theater in honor of Poetry Month! Create your very own poem and share it with friends.
Friday, April 7 at 3:30 p.m. – Teen Game Day — Show off your competitive side with your friends! From board games to video games, there will be plenty of fun! Are you up for the challenge?

For additional information, or to register for an event call 708-748-3731 or visit www.pfpl.org.

Friends of the Library Meeting – Tuesday, April 4

On Tuesday, April 4 at 7 p.m., the Friends of the Library will hold its monthly meeting. The meeting is open to the public. The Friends of the Park Forest Library enhance and support the operations of the library. In order for the Friends to operative, we need your involvement. You can sign up for membership by asking at the Patron Services or Info Zone desk. Also, membership forms can be found on the Library’s website that you can fill out and bring to the library. For additional information call 708-748-3731 or visit www.pfpl.org.

Park Forest Recreation & Parks Advisory Board

Easter Egg-Stravaganza — Saturday, April 8

The Park Forest Recreation and Parks Advisory Board and Recreation and Parks Department invites you and your family to take part in the Easter Egg-Stravaganza on Saturday, April 8, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Dining on the Green, 349 Main Street in DownTown Park Forest. This FREE event is intended for ages 13 and under. Participants will take part in crafts, an egg hunt, and have their pictures taken. Please note that participants must bring their own baskets. Egg hunts begin at 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Registration required. For additional information or to register, call 708-748-2005.

Prairie State College (PSC), 202 South Halsted, Chicago Heights

2017 Skyway Juried Art Exhibition – Through April 8

PSC’s Christopher Art Gallery will host the 2017 Skyway Juried Art Exhibition. Each year, students from various community colleges submit for this juried competition, and works chosen are exhibited at one of the colleges. This year, it is hosted at PSC. The exhibit will run through Saturday, April 8. The exhibit will feature: ceramics, drawing, design, electronic imagery, painting, photography, printmaking, and sculpture. Participating Colleges include: College of Lake County, Elgin Community College, McHenry County College, Moraine Valle Community College, Morton College, Oakton Community College, Prairie State College, and Waubonsee Community College. There will be a closing reception on Saturday, April 8 beginning at 11 a.m. Awards will be given at noon. Both the exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. The Christopher Art Gallery is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Wednesday and Thursday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and by appointment. For additional information or to schedule an appointment to view the exhibit, call 708-709-3636 or visit http://prairiestate.edu/christopher-art-gallery.

Rich Township Senior Center, 297 Liberty Drive, Park Forest

Thursday Game Days

Come join us at the Rich Township Senior Center, 297 Liberty Drive, in DownTown Park Forest every Thursday morning at 10 a.m. to play games with old friends and new friends. We have a few games on hand, Trivial Pursuit, Racko, Pente, Chess, Pictionary, High Hand and Rummikub. If none of these suit your taste, feel free to bring in your favorites. Come join in the fun. This is a new program, so please help to spread the word.

Adult Coloring

On the 2nd and 4th Tuesday morning of each month at 10 a.m., come to the Senior Center to participate in the new Adult Coloring Group. The Center has supplies and several types of mediums to color with. For additional information, call 708-748-5454.

Roosevelt University’s Gage Gallery, 18 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago

‘Rooftop: Second Nature’ Photo Exhibit – Through May 6

The public will get a rare look at green roofs in Chicago and beyond when photographer Brad Temkin’s Rooftop: Second Nature runs through May 6 at Roosevelt University’s Gage Gallery in Chicago.

Approximately 20 large-scale images of green rooftops in Chicago and other major cities around the world are the focus of the exhibit by Temkin, a Chicago-based artist whose photos taken between 2009 and 2016 tell a story of architecture and sustainability in the making. The exhibit is free and open to the public. Sponsored by Roosevelt’s Sustainability Studies Program, the College of Arts and Sciences and the Office of Physical Resources, the exhibit provides a look at green roofs atop Chicago’s City Hall, Roosevelt’s Wabash Building, the new Lurie Children’s Memorial Hospital and the Chicago Cultural Center, to name just a few Chicago locations. Green rooftops at Ford Motor Co. in Dearborn, Mich., Millennium Hall at Drexel University in Philadelphia and atop buildings in Switzerland, Germany, Ireland and Moscow are among other sites visited and photographed by Temkin, and are included in his new book Rooftop, which was published in 2015. Rooftop: Second Nature will run through May 6 at the Gage Gallery. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays. For more information, call 312-341-6458 or visit www.roosevelt.edu/gagegallery

South Suburban College (SSC), 15800 South State Street, South Holland

Family Reading Night – Tuesday, April 4

SSC’s Adult Volunteer Literacy Program is hosting their annual Family Reading Night event on Tuesday, April 4th from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. in the SSC Performing Arts Center Lobby. The public is invited to join SSC to find out about community literacy while enjoying stories and presentations. There will also be free books for children, raffles and refreshments. The event will feature 30 minutes of FREE face painting as well as a 30-minute puppet show. Adding more excitement to this fun-filled night will be the Arts and Crafts table set up to allow children to make their own little books. This year at Family Reading Night, SSC will hand out FREE children’s books to all children attending. Raffle gift cards will be issued and interactive games and reading stations will be hosted. Illiteracy is an issue that can be debilitating in so many ways for adults and children who never received the proper instruction. Adults who are unable to read have a much more difficult time with many daily activities that others may take for granted, along with a clear disadvantage in today’s competitive job market. SSC’s Adult Education Department administers the Adult Volunteer Literacy Tutoring Program in addition to High School Equivalency (HSE/GED), English as a Second Language (ESL), and Adult Basic Education (ABE). This year’s event promises to be exciting for all ages! We hope to see you there! For more information about South Suburban College’s Family Reading Night or the Adult Volunteer Literacy Program, please contact Raylynn Stokes, coordinator, at 708-596-2000, ext. 2558, or email rstokes@ssc.edu.

Dave Rudolf’s Wacky World – Thursday & Friday, April 6 & 7

Multi-award winner Dave Rudolf will appear in four performances at the Kindig Performing Art Center of South Suburban College. Dave. His fun-filled interactive shows will take place on April 6 and 7, 2017 at 9:45 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. “The Wacky World of Dave Rudolf” will feature goofy and interactive songs for kids of all ages. Children in the audience will get a chance to get on stage with Dave to sing, dance, limbo and conga their way to a delightful experience they will remember for years to come. Parent and grandparents will enjoy the show, too. Dave Rudolf’s comical and accessible musical style has made him a popular performer for college campuses across the country. In addition to being a Gold Record recipient, Rudolf has been nominated for a Grammy award, has received the Parents Choice Award and has been nominated 15 times for College Entertainer of the Year. Don’t miss your opportunity to see one of the most highly regarded entertainers! Reservations are suggested. Tickets are $5 per person. For more information or to reserve tickets, call the 24/7 box office voicemail line at 708-210-5741. Leave your name and phone number and someone will return your call. You may also reserve tickets by e-mail at boxoffice@ssc.edu.

Tall Grass Arts Association, 367 Artists Walk, Park Forest

‘Flight of Obscurity X’ Exhibit – Through April 15

Tall Grass Arts Association will host a very different kind of exhibit in its Gallery through April 15. ‘Flight of Obscurity X’ is an imposing solo show of sculptures and various installation elements created by Ohio artist Nathaniel Foley and presented in a significantly transformed space. Nathaniel’s sculpture focuses primarily on aviation process, materials and language. He creates forms with his own hands, and has mastered construction techniques and processes such as riveting and sheet metal fabrication that have been used throughout aviation history. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For additional information, call 708-748-3377 or visit www.tallgrass.org.

The Drama Group, 330 West 202nd Street, Chicago Heights

‘The Wizard of Oz’ – Opens Wednesday, April 5

The Drama Group is always pleased to present quality live theatre for children, schools and daycare. This season we bring you the beloved classic, ‘The Wizard of Oz,’ directed by Charlie Misoyve. Performances will be held at The Drama Group’s Milord Studio Theatre on April 5, 6 & 7 at 9:30 a.m. and noon; Saturday, April 8 at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.; and Sunday, April 9 at 1 p.m. The search for a brain, a heart and courage will delight audiences of all ages and reminds us that there is no place like home. Click your heels and relive this timeless classic! Tickets are $6 in advance; $5 for groups of 25+ and $7 at the door. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Box Office at 708-755-3444. For directions and other information regarding Drama Group activities, please visit our Website: www.dramagroup.org

Union Street Gallery, 1527 Otto Boulevard, Chicago Heights

Derby Day Fundraising Event – Saturday, May 6

Union Street Gallery will be bringing some Kentucky Charm to the south suburbs at its annual Derby Day event on Saturday, May 6. The event will be held at the Olympia Fields Country Club, 2800 Country Club Drive. Enjoy the pageantry and good company associated with the Derby. We have hats, food, drinks, good company, and of course the race. Olympia Fields Country Club is a beautiful place to spend the day with Union Street Gallery. This is one of our two main fundraisers for the year. Purchase your ticket today to support our continued efforts to bring a variety of high quality art exhibitions and art programming to the south suburbs. Tickets are $65 per person and include a bird’s eye view of the race and deli buffet. There will also be a cash bar. A variety of artists associated with Union Street Gallery donate some fabulous hats for us to sell at the Derby Day fundraiser. Pick out your favorite one of a kind Derby hat to wear during the event. Hats start around $40. Guests are invited to bet on the winning horse. Stay tuned for more information on the raffle prizes that will be available during the event. If you are interested in donating a raffle prize, contact us at info@unionstreetgallery.org. Country club attire is required at the event. You can learn more, including information on sponsorship of the event, and purchase your tickets online, or by stopping in the Gallery.

Unitarian Universalist Community Church (UUCC), 70 Sycamore Drive, Park Forest

Edgar’s Place Coffee House Presents Dana Cooper – Saturday, April 8

On Saturday, April 8 at 7:30 p.m., Edgar’s Place Coffee House, located at UUCC, will present Dana Cooper. Out of the heartland of American, stomping grounds of Truman and Twain, ‘powerhouse’ troubadour Dana Cooper dedicated himself to a life of music over 40 years ago. This poet engages and inspires audiences around the world with his quick wit, insightful stories and commanding presence. There is a $15 cover charge payable at the door. For additional information, call 708- 481-5339 or visit www.uuccpf.org.

Educational Lectures & Opportunities

Center on Halsted, 3656 North Halsted Street, Chicago

5th Annual National LGBTQ Health Conference: Bridging Research and Practice – Registration Now in Progress

The Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing at Northwestern University and The Sexual Orientation and Gender Institute at Center on Halsted are pleased to host the 5th annual National LGBTQ Health Conference: Bridging Research and Practice. This is the nation’s only research conference that brings together scientists, public health professionals, and healthcare providers to improve the health and wellbeing of lesbian, gay bisexual, transgender and queer populations. With national sponsors including the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities and the Centers for Disease Control, the conference will focus on creating a dialogue between researchers and practitioners by integrating research findings and clinical application into each panel or symposium. The conference also fosters professional development and networking opportunities. This year’s conference themes are HIV/AIDS; Sexually Transmitted Diseases; Adolescent Health; Violence and Trauma; Suicide and Mental Health; and Intersections of Race/Ethnicity and LGBTQ Health. The conference features two keynote speakers: Dr. Laura Kann, Senior Scientist and Chief of the School-Based Surveillance Branch in the Division of Adolescent and School Health at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; and Dr. Ilan Meyer, Williams Distinguished Senior Scholar of Public Policy at the Williams Institute. Expert panels and breakout sessions will showcase emerging research and practice in LGBTQ health. The conference will be held on April 28th – 29th at Hyatt Centric Chicago Magnificent Mile and will conclude with a Professional Development Institute at Center on Halsted on April 30th. Conference registration information can be found at www.community.centeronhalsted.org/sogi.

The Institute of Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing (ISGMH) was founded in 2015 and is the first university-wide institute in the country focused exclusively on research to improve the health of the sexual and gender minority (SGM) community. ISGMH grew from director Dr. Brian Mustanski’s IMPACT LGBT Health and Development Program, which has been conducting state-of-the art translational research with LGBT youth populations since 2008. Learn more at http://isgmh.northwestern.edu.